The roster for the 46th annual Coca-Cola Classic Pee Wee Invitational Hockey Tournament, Feb. 9-12, has been finalized.
Joining the Watkin Motors Mustangs will be the Seafair Islanders of Richmond, Cochrane Rookies (Alberta), West Kootenay Rapids, California Wave, Sherwood Park Spartans, Chilliwack Bruins and Montana Thunderblades.
The Thunderblades are coached by NHL Hall of Famer and Stanley Cup champion Lanny McDonald. His grandson is on the team.
The announcement was made by tournament director Glenn (Stumpy) Mitchell.
“We had lots of interest in the tournament so the committee had to make some tough choices,” said Mitchell.
The Coke Classic is held during the Winter Carnival and holds the motto: ‘The Stars of Tomorrow are Here Today.’
Tournament alumni include scores of NHL players, including Morgan Reilly, Mathew Dumba, Daymond Langkow, Ray Whitney, Jason Marshall, Brent Gilchrist, Jeff Finley, Barry Pederson, Gord Kluzak, Mark Lamb, Doug Bodger and Greg Hawgood.
Vernon has won the Amy Myles Memorial A event trophy six times, taking three straight from 2006-08.